Enhancing Gate Efficiency with Slot Times

In November, APM Terminals will introduce slot times for truck traffic with the aim of creating a more stable and efficient flow. 

Currently, the average truck handling time at our terminal is 30 minutes—a competitive benchmark. However, traffic patterns vary significantly throughout the day, resulting in occasional congestion or periods of minimal activity. To maintain a more consistent flow, we are introducing a slot time system.

“At the moment, we have no insight into when trucks arrive at the terminal, which makes it difficult to optimize resource allocation,” says Emma Klofsten Tendell, Customer Care Partner at APM Terminals Gothenburg, and continues:

"Fast, stable handling times are vital for our customers, and slot times will help us better meet those expectations. This system has proven successful at other APM terminals, such as Port Elizabeth in New York and Vado in Italy. After thorough analysis, we are confident it will deliver similar results here in Gothenburg."

Reduced waiting times and increased predictability

The aim of slot times is to enable the 30-minute handling time to be maintained throughout the day, which reduces the risk of queuing and increases predictability. It also opens up opportunities to further increase efficiency and optimise the terminal’s capacity.

“With better visibility on container pick-up schedules, we can strategically manage yard space, minimize unnecessary driving and lifting, and allocate resources more effectively—ultimately driving higher operational efficiency,” says Emma Klofsten Tendell.

Implementation step by step

The slot times will be implemented in stages, with the first step being to introduce day slots. “Once this is well established, we will move on to half-day slots, with the long-term goal of introducing even smaller intervals,” she concludes.